Why Do Cats Purr?

A cat’s purr is a means of communication, similar to when they meow. Domestic cats aren’t the only ones to use this means of communication. Smaller species of wild cats like bobcats, ocelots and lynxes also purr, so it isn’t something they’ve evolved entirely for our benefit. If our feline friends were to only purr to communicate with us, they wouldn’t do it when we’re not around, but cats purr with or without human company. A 2019 study discusses how ‘contrary to what is usually believed, the purr can vary subtly and be used in several situations’.

There are thought to be a few different reasons as to why does a cat purr and working out the cause of the noise usually comes down to their body language. Just assuming a cat is happy because it’s purring is like thinking any dog wagging their tail is happy. It must be taken into consideration as part of a larger picture which involves their body language.

For the most part, it’s usually safe to assume that most cat purrs occur when a cat is expressing how happy and content they are. If they’re lying down and look quite happy with relaxed ears and small pupils, then it’s clear they are enjoying their relaxation.

If your feline friend comes for a cuddle on your lap and purrs while you’re giving them a scratch, it’s very unlikely to be for any other reason. A cat sitting in your lap having a stroke is going to be feeling safe and secure and their purr will reflect this. Some purrs can be different and relaxed purring is usually very regular, almost soothing to us just to hear it. 

If you’ve noticed your new kitten purring away and you’re wondering why do kittens purr, it’s because they are known to purr at their mothers from birth. It’s a communication tool they are born with an often using their loving sound to help their mothers locate where they are. Especially if they’re hidden away. It’s a tool that works both ways, as kittens are born blind and death, when their mother purrs they know they’re safe and protected.

When their eyesight develops and they’re able to locate their mum themselves, they continue to purr, especially when they return from any time away or around feeding time.

This behaviour then continues with their new parents who become their new family, so they use their purr as a way of communicating how they’re feeling. It can be a sign of affection, so you know when your kitten purrs as soon as they see you, they see you as a family member!

When it’s wondered what does a cat purring mean, often times it’s assumed to be positive. However, a purr doesn’t always indicate something positive; it can also be a sign of stress in cats. Just because your moggy is purring while they’re having a vet check or when strangers come into the home, it doesn’t mean they’re having a great time. It could mean that a stressor has triggered it.

A purr triggered by anxiety will usually be a higher pitched and a little faster than a nice, happy relaxed purr. You could also notice some stiff body language or a crouched posture with ears pinned back if they’re worried.

To help ease their stress and anxiety, the Beaphar Calming Home Spray for Cats is a perfect for spraying on their toys or favourite spot to help ease their symptoms and bring a sense of calm.   

Self-soothing is something that cats do to make them feel better when they’re worried. Purring to self soothe is similar to when we are anxious and give ourselves a pep talk not to worry. When cats purr it’s not just a relaxing noise for us, but it really helps them to relax and reduces their anxiety.

If you’ve noticed your moggy purring more than usual with no apparent reason, it’s possible that cats purr when they’re in pain and use their vibrations to speed up the healing process. Purring can occur when they’re injured or if they’re giving birth. The low frequency of the vibrations helps to release endorphins in cats which can be used as a natural pain relief.

If they are purring to an injury, you’re not aware of, we recommend contacting your vet for further support.  

Cats don’t need any extra or special body parts to purr. To make their soothing vibrations they quickly move the muscles of their larynx. Along with the movement of their diaphragm, the sound occurs when the air hits the vibrating muscles.

Each cat’s purr is a little different, some may be high pitched while others will sound deeper, and it all just depends on their anatomy when it comes down to the little differences. The speed and pitch of the vibrations can help you distinguish how they’re feeling once you know their regular, relaxed purr. 

All cats are technically able to purr, they have the anatomy in their bodies to do so. But some cats tend to purr more than others and some felines will do so very gently to the point where you might even be convinced that they don’t purr.

It’s often wondered if dogs purr, but they don’t do it as cats do. They do make a similar-sounding rumble which occurs when they’re enjoying being cuddled.

While it is something every cat can do, the frequency and the volume will differ between cats just like every cat’s meow is different. Especially as some felines will meow over a multitude of different things while others are more specific and don’t as often. Purring is the same in that respect - some cats are more inclined to and more obvious about it than others.

For all your cat essentials to keep your kitty happy and purring, visit us in store or online.